Medical indemnity claims against private health sector providers were steady in 2012/13, while public sector claims dropped significantly.

Figures from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) show private sector claims were steady compared with 2010/11 at 3200-3300 claims, but higher than the 2300-2500 claims made annually between 2008/09 and 2009/10.

The 950 public sector claims made were lower than for the preceding five years, when 1200-1400 claims were received annually.

New claims against GPs, in both public and private sectors, dropped, as did claims against obstetrics and gynaecology specialists.

An increasing proportion of claims related to the digestive, metabolic and endocrine systems.

The research does not suggest reasons for the changes.

AIHW says about 38% of all closed claims settled for less than $10,000 in 2012/13, including 15% at no cost.

Another 29% closed for $10,000-$100,000, while 25% settled for $100,000A-$500,000.

About 9% of claims were settled for more than $500,000.